Name: Birthday Sheet Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup milk; Frosting of your choice

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Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 350
Protein: 3g per serving
Carbohydrates: 45g per serving
Fat: 17g per serving
Fiber: 1g per serving
Sugar: 20g per serving
Sodium: 200mg per serving

Why Make This Birthday Sheet Cake

Nothing brings people together quite like a delicious cake, especially when it’s a Birthday Sheet Cake! This delightful dessert is the perfect centerpiece for celebrations, combining a soft, fluffy texture with a sweet, buttery flavor that everyone loves. Its versatility makes it suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or just a special treat to enjoy. Plus, it’s bright and colorful with your favorite frosting, making it visually appealing. Making a sheet cake is also an efficient way to serve many guests, so get ready to delight friends and family with a slice of this scrumptious cake!

How to Make Birthday Sheet Cake

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheet. Grease and flour a sheet cake pan to ensure your cake slides right out after baking.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes of mixing; it helps to incorporate air into the batter for a fluffy cake texture. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, which will add a lovely aroma and taste to your cake.

Step 3: Cooking

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and airy. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Finishing

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. After cooling, it’s time to frost! Decorate the cake with your favorite frosting, and voila! Your beautifully indulgent Birthday Sheet Cake is ready to be served.

How to Serve Birthday Sheet Cake

Serve your Birthday Sheet Cake at room temperature for the best flavor. Cut it into squares or rectangles, and offer a variety of toppings like colorful sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fresh fruits to make each slice even more delightful. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.

How to Store Birthday Sheet Cake

Store your leftover Birthday Sheet Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Birthday Sheet Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature to create a smooth batter.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep the cake fluffy.
Check for Doneness: Always perform the toothpick test to check if the cake is done baking.
Customize Your Frosting: Experiment with different types of frosting like cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or whipped cream for different flavors.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Birthday Sheet Cake: Substitute 1 cup of all-purpose flour for 1 cup of cocoa powder for a rich chocolate version.
Funfetti Cake: Add colorful sprinkles into the batter for a fun twist that is sure to delight kids and adults alike.
Lemon Birthday Cake: Incorporate lemon zest and a bit of lemon juice in the batter for a zesty flavor.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to make this cake gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container until ready to frost and serve.
Can I use another type of milk?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other plant-based milk for dairy-free options.
What’s the best way to frost the cake?
For an even coat, spread a thin layer of frosting on first to crumb coat and refrigerate. Then add a thicker layer for the final decoration.
How do I make my cake moist?
Make sure you don’t overbake and use room temperature ingredients for better mixing. Adding a bit of sour cream or yogurt can also increase moisture.
How can I make the cake healthier?
You can reduce the sugar slightly or use a healthier sugar alternative. Substituting half of the butter with applesauce is another way to reduce fat content.

Conclusion

This Birthday Sheet Cake is not only delicious but also wonderfully simple to make! Its soft, fluffy base topped with your favorite frosting is sure to bring smiles to any gathering. So, whether it’s a birthday or just a reason to celebrate, gather your ingredients and start baking! Your friends and family will love it, and who knows, it might just become your go-to cake recipe for every occasion! Happy baking!